All About Astrological Houses

Contents...

1. What is an astrological house? 2. What is house division? 3. How do you interpret the astrological houses? 4. The Astrological Houses 5. Classification of the astrological houses

In astrology, a birth chart is like a personal map that reveals aspects of our lives. If the zodiac signs describe our character traits, astrological houses show us where these traits are expressed. Divided into 12 (from I to XII), they are essential for reading a birth chart. Let’s decode it.

1. What is an astrological house?

The zodiac signs, also numbering twelve, correspond to 30-degree segments of the celestial circle, each associated with particular character traits and energies. They indicate how a person expresses their energies and behaviors.

Houses, on the other hand, show where these energies are expressed in a person's life. Thus, signs describe the nature of the energy, while houses specify the area of life concerned.

It is important to note that the division into signs is natural, resulting from the 12 lunations of the year, while the division into houses is arbitrary and varies according to the house systems used (see below).

2. What is house division?

House division is the process by which the sky is divided into 12 astrological houses in a birth chart. Unlike the zodiac signs, which are fixed divisions of 30 degrees each, houses are not always equal in size and vary according to the chosen house system, the time of birth, and the place of birth.

Each house system uses a specific method to draw these 12 houses from the Ascendant, which corresponds to the eastern horizon at the time of birth.

Placidus	This is the most widely used system in modern Western astrology. It divides the time between the rising and setting of each house according to the angle of the celestial planes. This system is particularly accurate for temperate latitudes.
Koch	Another time-based system, but with slightly different methods from Placidus. It is sometimes preferred for its more dynamic approach.
Equal Houses	Here, all houses are 30 degrees in size, regardless of geographical or temporal specifics. This system is often chosen for its simplicity.
Whole Sign Houses	Each entire zodiac sign is considered a house. This means that if the Ascendant falls at 10 degrees of Taurus, the entire First House will be in the sign of Taurus.
Campanus	This system divides the celestial sphere into 12 equal segments using hourly circles projected from the center of the Earth, based on the observer's perception of the space around them.
Regiomontanus	This system divides the celestial sphere into 12 equal segments by dividing the celestial equator into 12 equal parts, then projects these divisions onto the ecliptic to determine the houses.

The house division method directly influences how the houses are drawn and, consequently, how the birth chart is read.

Some astrologers prefer to experiment with different systems to see which one best corresponds to the events or character traits observed in a person's life. Although house division may seem a little technical, it is above all essential for adapting astrology to the individual reality of each chart. 

3. How do you interpret the astrological houses?

To read and interpret your astrological houses, start by obtaining your natal chart. Accessible through your date, time, and place of birth, it is essential for locating your houses and understanding their influence. On the chart's circular diagram, the houses are represented as sections delineated by lines. These lines mark the beginning of each house, called the cusp, and each is associated with a zodiac sign.

Once you have your chart, the next step is to observe the sign located at the beginning of each house. This sign directly influences how you experience the events associated with that area.

The planets present in a house bring their energy to the area concerned.

Finally, the relationships or aspects that the planets in your houses form with other elements of the chart help refine the interpretation. These interactions reveal nuances or tensions between different areas of your life. 

For an in-depth reading, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the basics of the signs and planets, then gradually explore the connections between these elements and the houses. Reading the houses may seem complex at first, but it becomes more accessible with a little practice and the right tools.

4. The Astrological Houses

Now that we have covered the important definitions and their interactions, it is time to get to the heart of the matter with an introduction to the 12 astrological houses and the influence of the planets (what happens in this area), as well as that of the signs (how it manifests).

4.1. House I (Ascendant)

4.1.1. Introduction to House I

The First House is associated with your visible personality and the way you present yourself to the world. It represents physical appearance, spontaneous behaviour, and the first impression you make on others. The Ascendant, which marks the beginning of this house, acts as a gateway to your birth chart, influencing how you start things and approach life.

4.1.2. Influence of the planets on the First House

Sun	Strong presence, natural charisma, desire for attention.
Moon	Sensitivity, receptiveness, visibly expressed emotions.
Mercury	Sharp mind, rapid communication, curiosity.
Venus	Natural beauty, charm, grace in appearance.
Mars	Dynamism, energy, sometimes aggressiveness.
Jupiter	Optimism, generosity, expansion of the personality.
Saturn	Serious appearance, maturity, reserve.
Uranus	Originality, eccentricity, unpredictability.
Neptune	Mystery, dreaminess, artistic aura.
Pluto	Introspection, magnetism, intensity.

4.1.3. Influence of the signs on the First House

Aries	Impulsive
Taurus	Stable
Gemini	Curious
Cancer	Protective
Leo	Charismatic
Virgo	Analytical
Libra	Diplomatic
Scorpio	Intense
Sagittarius	Adventurous
Capricorn	Ambitious
Aquarius	Innovative
Pisces	Empathetic

4.2. Second House

4.2.1. Presentation of the Second House

This house focuses on material possessions, finances, and personal value. It shows how you manage your resources, your attitude towards money and possessions, as well as your self-esteem.

4.2.2. Influence of the planets on the Second House

Sun	Identity linked to financial success.
Moon	Emotions influenced by material security.
Mercury	Active mind in business and transactions.
Venus	Pursuit of comfort and material pleasures.
Mars	Initiative to generate income, sometimes impulsive spending.
Jupiter	Potential for wealth and abundance.
Saturn	Need to structure and save, patience to build wealth.
Uranus	Sudden changes in finances.
Neptune	Confusion or idealism regarding possessions.
Pluto	Radical transformations in resources.

4.2.3. Influence of the signs on the Second House

Aries	Financial initiative
Taurus	Material stability
Gemini	Variability
Cancer	Family attachment to assets
Leo	Grandeur in acquisitions
Virgo	Precision
Libra	Financial harmony
Scorpio	Strategic investments
Sagittarius	Financial boldness
Capricorn	Pragmatism
Aquarius	Economic innovations
Pisces	Intuitive approach

4.3. Third House

4.3.1. Presentation of the Third House

The Third House is associated with communication, daily interactions, and relationships with siblings, neighbours, or close acquaintances. It also encompasses short trips and practical learning. This area reveals how you express your thoughts and how you adapt to your immediate environment.

4.3.2. Influence of the planets on the Third House

Sun	Identity linked to financial success.
Moon	Emotions influenced by material security.
Mercury	Active mind in business and transactions.
Venus	Pursuit of comfort and material pleasures.
Mars	Initiative to generate income, sometimes impulsive spending.
Jupiter	Potential for wealth and abundance.
Saturn	Need to structure and save, patience to build wealth.
Uranus	Sudden changes in finances.
Neptune	Confusion or idealism regarding possessions.
Pluto	Radical transformations in resources.

4.3.3. Influence of the signs on the Third House

Aries	Direct communication
Taurus	Measured reflection
Gemini	Vivacity
Cancer	Emotional approach
Leo	Expressiveness
Virgo	Precision
Libra	Diplomacy
Scorpio	Intensity
Sagittarius	Open-mindedness
Capricorn	Structured speech
Aquarius	Originality
Pisces	Sensitivity

4.4. Fourth House (Imum Coeli)

4.4.1. Presentation of the Fourth House

The Fourth House represents your roots, family, and home. It shows your relationship with your birth home, your childhood, and sometimes the end of life. It is also the house of emotional foundations and family traditions.

4.4.2. Influence of the planets on the Fourth House

Sun	Importance of family traditions, need for a bright home.
PLune	Emotional attachment to the home.
Mercury	Intellectual activity within the home.
Venus	Harmonious and aesthetically pleasing home.
Mars	Dynamism in the home, sometimes family conflicts.
Jupiter	Expansion and prosperity in family life.
Saturn	Responsibilities and discipline in the home.
Uranus	Frequent changes within the home.
Neptune	Dreamy or idealized atmosphere in the home.
Pluto	Profound transformations in family relationships.

4.4.3. Influence of the signs on the Fourth House

Aries	Dynamic home
Taurus	Security
Gemini	Adaptability
Cancer	Deep attachment
Leo	Theatrical home
Virgo	Organization
Libra	Balance
Scorpio	Intensity
Sagittarius	Cultural openness
Capricorn	Structure
Aquarius	Innovation
Pisces	Sensitivity

4.5. Fifth House

4.5.1. Overview of the Fifth House

This house is associated with creativity, leisure activities, and children. It reflects your passions, your ability to enjoy life, and your personal expression. Artistic activities, casual romantic relationships, and games fall under its influence. For example, Jupiter in the Fifth House may indicate a fulfilling love life or great creative talent.

4.5.2. Influence of the planets on the Fifth House

Sun	Radiant artistic expression, love of leisure and creative activities.
Moon	Emotional attachment to children or creative projects, need to find comfort in leisure activities.
Mercury	Active creative mind, communication in artistic or educational fields.
Venus	Artistic talent, appreciation of aesthetic and romantic pleasures.
Mars	Dynamism in creative activities, energy directed toward competitive leisure activities.
Jupiter	Abundance in relationships with children or in creative projects, fondness for expansive leisure activities.
Saturn	Serious and structured approach to leisure activities or responsibilities toward children.
Uranus	Originality and innovation in creativity, love of unconventional activities.
Neptune	Deep artistic inspiration, tendency to idealize children or projects.
Pluto	Intensity and major transformations in relationships with children or in personal expression.

4.5.3. Influence of the signs on the Fifth House

Aries	Bold creativity
Taurus	Sensual and grounded expression
Gemini	Varied and intellectual creativity
Cancer	Emotional creativity
Leo	Need to shine in leisure activities
Virgo	Attention to detail in art or projects
Libra	Harmony and aesthetics in activities
Scorpio	Intense passions
Sagittarius	Adventure-oriented leisure activities
Capricorn	Structure and discipline
Aquarius	Originality and independence
Pisces	Intuitive inspiration

4.6. Sixth House

4.6.1. Overview of the Sixth House

The Sixth House is associated with daily work, health, and service. It shows how you take care of yourself, your relationship with routine work, and your ability to be useful to others.

4.6.2. Influence of the planets on the Sixth House

Sun	Importance attached to routine and personal fulfillment at work.
Moon	Emotional sensitivity in the work environment, need for well-being to function.
Mercury	A quick and analytical mind in daily tasks, ability to manage details.
Venus	Search for harmony in the workplace, care given to health and well-being.
Mars	Energy and dynamism in daily tasks, possibility of overwork.
Jupiter	Opportunities for growth at work, optimism in the face of daily challenges.
Saturn	Rigor and responsibility in daily tasks, methodical approach to health.
Uranus	Frequent changes at work, preference for unconventional environments.
Neptune	Inspiration in service to others, but possibility of confusion or neglect.
Pluto	Profound transformations in routines or health.

4.6.3. Influence of the signs on the Sixth House

Aries	Energetic work
Taurus	Stable and persevering approach
Gemini	Versatility in tasks
Cancer	Attention to others' needs
Leo	Pride in work
Virgo	Attention to detail and discipline
Libra	Search for balance
Scorpio	Intensity and transformation
Sagittarius	Need for expansion in work
Capricorn	Structured and ambitious approach
Aquarius	Originality in service
Pisces	Intuitive approach

4.7. Seventh House (Descendant)

4.7.1. Introduction to the Seventh House

This house governs partnerships, marriage, and all the important relationships in your life. It indicates how you interact with others on a personal and professional level. The Descendant, which marks the beginning of this house, is opposite the Ascendant and reflects what you seek in others.

4.7.2. Influence of the planets on the Seventh House

Sun	Importance attached to relationships, need to shine in partnerships.
Moon	Strong emotional relationships, need for security in unions.
Mercury	Communication is essential in partnerships, a quick mind in collaborations.
Venus	Harmony and beauty sought in relationships.
Mars	Dynamism and passion in partnerships, but potential for conflict.
Jupiter	Expansive relationships, often bringing opportunities.
Saturn	Responsibilities and serious commitments in relationships.
Uranus	Need for independence in partnerships, unconventional relationships.
Neptune	Tendency to idealize partners, but risk of disappointment.
Pluto	Intensity and profound transformations in relationships.

4.7.3. Influence of the signs on the Seventh House

Aries	Dynamic and sometimes conflictual relationships
Taurus	Stable and sensual relationships
Gemini	Need for communication in unions
Cancer	Deep emotional attachment
Leo	Charismatic partnerships
Virgo	Attention to detail in relationships
Libra	Search for balance and harmony
Scorpio	Intense and passionate relationships
Sagittarius	Free and open relationships
Capricorn	Commitment and structure
Aquarius	Original and independent relationships
Pisces	Intuitive and spiritual relationships

4.8. Eighth House

4.8.1. Overview of the Eighth House

The Eighth House is associated with transformations, shared resources, and sexuality. It is often associated with themes of death, rebirth, and profound change. It also governs inheritances, shared finances, and secrets.

4.8.2. Influence of the planets on the Eighth House

Sun	Significant personal transformation, exploration of shared resources.
Moon	Emotional sensitivity related to transformations.
Mercury	Curiosity about mysteries or occult aspects.
Venus	Harmony in shared finances, intense sensuality.
Mars	Powerful energy in transformations, intensity in sexuality.
Jupiter	Expansion of shared resources, personal growth through transformations.
Saturn	Restrictions or responsibilities regarding shared finances, slow transformations.
Uranus	Sudden changes in resources or sexuality.
Neptune	Heightened intuition, but possible confusion during transformations.
Pluto	Profound and intense transformations, capacity for regeneration.

4.8.3. Influence of the signs on the Eighth House

Aries	Rapid transformations
Taurus	Stability in the face of change
Gemini	Curiosity about mysteries
Cancer	Emotional intensity in transformations
Leo	Need for control
Virgo	Analysis of transformation processes
Libra	Harmony in shared resources
Scorpio	Mastery of transformations
Sagittarius	Exploration of resources
Capricorn	Structure in transformations
Aquarius	Innovation in the face of change
Pisces	Intuitive acceptance of transformations

 

4.9. Ninth House

4.9.1. Overview of the Ninth House

This house is associated with philosophy, higher education, and long-distance travel. It represents your ideals, your thirst for knowledge, and your openness to new cultures and beliefs.

4.9.2. Influence of the planets on the Ninth House

Sun	Importance of personal exploration and higher learning.
Moon	Strong intuition in travel or philosophical studies, need for emotions in learning.
Mercury	Communication and intellectual curiosity in global or spiritual subjects.
Venus	Harmony in travel and attraction to foreign cultures.
Mars	Dynamism in studies or distant adventures, passion for ideals.
Jupiter	Expansion through travel, philosophy, or higher education.
Saturn	Disciplined studies, structure in the search for meaning or travel.
Uranus	Need for unique experiences and new perspectives in explorations.
Neptune	Inspiration and spirituality in travel and philosophy, sometimes confusion in beliefs.
Pluto	Profound transformations through travel or the evolution of ideals.

4.9.3. Influence of the signs on the Ninth House

Aries	Travel and studies undertaken with passion
Taurus	A stable approach to ideals
Gemini	A thirst for intellectual discovery
Cancer	A need for emotional grounding even during explorations
Leo	Learning connected to self-expression
Virgo	Precision in studies
Libra	Harmony and the pursuit of balance in ideals)
Scorpio	Intense exploration of profound truths
Sagittarius	A thirst for travel and freedom
Capricorn	Structure and discipline in education
Aquarius	An innovative approach to ideals
Pisces	Spirituality in the search for meaning

 

4.10. Tenth House (Midheaven)

4.10.1. Introduction to the Tenth House

The Tenth House is the house of career, ambitions, and public reputation. The Midheaven, which marks the highest point of the birth chart, reflects your long-term goals and the image you project to the world.

4.10.2. Influence of the planets on the Tenth House

Sun	Ambition and a need to shine in the career.
Moon	Emotions tied to professional achievements, with a need to find a balance between public and personal life.
Mercury	Communication is essential in the professional field.
Venus	Harmony and aesthetics in the career, often related to art or relationships.
Mars	Dynamism and competitiveness in professional goals.
Jupiter	Expansion and opportunities in the career, often a fortunate path.
Saturn	Patience and hard work to achieve lasting goals.
Uranus	Frequent changes in career or an attraction to unconventional professions.
Neptune	A career inspired by spirituality or the imagination, but sometimes a lack of clarity.
Pluto	Deep transformations and power in the public sphere.

4.10.3. Influence of the signs on the Tenth House

Aries	Direct and bold ambitions
Taurus	A career rooted in stability
Gemini	Versatility in one's profession
Cancer	A career related to family values
Leo	A need for recognition in the career
Virgo	A methodical and disciplined approach
Libra	Harmony and diplomacy in the public reputation
Scorpio	Intensity in goals
Sagittarius	A career related to exploration or teaching
Capricorn	Hard work and discipline
Aquarius	Originality and innovation in the career
Pisces	A career inspired by compassion or spirituality

4.11. Eleventh House

4.11.1. Introduction to the Eleventh House

This house is associated with friendships, groups, and collective aspirations. It shows how you integrate into society and your dreams for the future. It is also the house of large-scale projects and ideals.

4.11.2. Influence of the planets on the Eleventh House

Sun	Radiance in social groups, with a need to be at the center of networks.
Moon	Deep emotional relationships with friends, and a need for support within groups.
Mercury	Active communication with friends and in collective projects.
Venus	Harmony in friendships and an attraction to balanced social relationships.
Mars	Dynamism in group activities, sometimes conflicts with friends.
Jupiter	Abundance of friends or involvement in large-scale projects.
Saturn	Responsibility and seriousness in friendships, sometimes limited or restricted connections.
Uranus	Original and unexpected relationships, involvement in avant-garde groups.
Neptune	Inspiring friends or spiritual connections, but sometimes idealized.
Pluto	Profound transformations through friendships or collective projects.

4.11.3. Influence of the signs on House XI

Aries	Dynamic friendships
Taurus	Stable and lasting relationships
Gemini	Versatility in one's profession
Cancer	Varied and intellectual networks
Leo	Emotional attachment to friends
Virgo	Need for leadership in groups
Libra	Balance in friendships
Scorpio	Intense relationships
Sagittarius	Free and open friendships
Capricorn	Serious and ambitious relationships
Aquarius	Originality in social networks
Pisces	Spiritual friendships

4.12. House XII

4.12.1. Introduction to House XII

House XII is associated with the subconscious, retreats, and trials. It represents what is hidden, dreams, and deep fears. It is also the house of spirituality and connections with the invisible.

4.12.2. Influence of the planets on House XII

Sun	Need for inner understanding and solitude to regenerate.
Moon	Hidden emotions, great sensitivity to unconscious influences.
Mercury	Analytical mind regarding spiritual or subconscious matters.
Venus	Harmony in spiritual retreats, attraction to introspective art.
Mars	Hidden energy, need for action during introspection.
Jupiter	Expansion in spirituality and mystical experiences.
Saturn	Trials related to isolation or hidden responsibilities.
Uranus	Sudden changes in unconscious perceptions.
Neptune	Strong spiritual connection, but sometimes illusions or confusion.
Pluto	Intense transformations in the subconscious, psychological regeneration.

4.12.3. Influence of the signs on House XII

Aries	Need to overcome trials with courage
Taurus	Stable approach to retreats
Gemini	Analysis of fears and dreams
Cancer	Emotional connection to the subconscious
Leo	Need to shine even during introspection
Virgo	Analysis of suffering
Libra	Harmony in difficult times
Scorpio	Intense transformations
Sagittarius	Search for meaning in trials
Capricorn	Discipline in difficult moments
Aquarius	Innovative perceptions
Pisces	Profound spiritual connection

5. Classification of the astrological houses

Astrological houses are not simply isolated sectors of a birth chart. They are organized according to precise classifications that provide a better understanding of their role and functioning. These classifications are based on their position in the natal chart, their connection with the astrological elements, and their significance in the individual's life.

5.1. Classification by mode

First, the houses are classified into three groups according to their mode: angular, succedent, and cadent. This classification helps identify the intensity or dynamism of an area of life in the chart:

• The angular houses (I, IV, VII, X) mark the major axes of life. They are dynamic and reflect key moments: the First House represents the beginning of the self, the Fourth House focuses on roots and home, the Seventh House deals with relationships and partnerships, and the Tenth House symbolizes career and ambition.

• The succedent houses (II, V, VIII, XI) follow these angular houses and are associated with stability and building. They relate to areas where one seeks to consolidate, such as finances, creativity, or social aspirations.

• The cadent houses (III, VI, IX, XII) are houses of adaptation and reflection. They are linked to communication, daily work, education, and inner challenges.

5.1. Classification by element

Another classification is based on the astrological elements: fire, earth, air, and water. Associating houses with the astrological elements helps us understand the style or tone of an area of life:

• The fire houses (I, V, IX) are linked to energy and action, representing areas where individuals express their vitality and ideals.

• The earth houses (II, VI, X) focus on the practical and material aspects of life, such as possessions, health, or career.

• The air houses (III, VII, XI) govern communication and relationships, encouraging exchanges and social interactions.

• The water houses (IV, VIII, XII) deal with emotions and transformations, exploring family roots, personal metamorphoses, and the inner world.

5.2. Classification by scope

The houses are also classified according to their scope in life: personal, relational, or universal, which structures the interpretation of the chart into levels of experience:

• The personal houses (I to IV) relate to an individual's identity and foundations, such as their personality or home.

• The relationship houses (V to VIII) concern interactions with others, particularly in romantic relationships, work, or partnerships.

• The universal houses (IX to XII) open onto the collective and the spiritual, addressing themes such as the quest for meaning, public career, friendships, and introspection.

That concludes this article on astrological houses. It is not necessarily obvious, which shows that practicing astrology requires work and rigor. More topics on this subject will be available to read soon.